I work in retail and was approved to take a vacation day on July 3 so I could go away with my family. Then on Friday my manager told me that they are short staffed on Monday and need me to come in. I told her that wasn’t possible since I already made plans. She said if I didn’t show up there would be consequences. I said this was unfair. I am not showing up. What can they do?
They can do whatever they want, unfortunately, because in most circumstances they can control your work schedule and change it as business conditions dictate. So, at worst they could fire you (which would be very un-American on this most American of holidays — I’m warning your employer right now!). They might just be less flexible the next time you need a scheduling accommodation, or it might have been an empty threat. You should call in, though, rather than just not show up. Remind your boss that you could not change your plans without undue hardship and expense. Apologize that you couldn’t help, and hope for the best
I worked in a tax department and was given an IRS audit to handle. I told my employer that I needed support because I didn’t understand our position, but help was not forthcoming. When I complained, I was criticized by the head of the department who told my boss to fire me. He refused, but I was removed from the audit and then laid off. I’m considering notifying the board of directors but am worried about further retaliation. Any advice?
If you were expressing concern about the company’s handling of the taxes and doubting the position they wanted you to take, then you could be protected by whistleblower laws that prevent retaliation by the company. If you were simply asking for help and not claiming, questioning or exposing some alleged wrongdoing, then that protection wouldn’t apply. Sounds to me as if you should review your circumstances with an attorney before you do or say anything. Meanwhile, try to keep your spirits up. Employers understand that layoffs are normal. In finance and taxes, the more experience you have the better, so don’t make age an issue in order to have a better chance of it not being a problem for a new employer.